The World Karate Federation (WKF) has introduced its new motto, "The World is Our Dojo," which will be officially unveiled at the Karate One Youth League presented by the Philippine Sports Commission (PSC). The event kicks off on May 14 at the Mall of Asia Arena in Pasay City.
Global Growth of Karate
Richard Lim, president of Karate Pilipinas Sports Federation, Inc., explained that the motto reflects the sport's remarkable expansion. "The WKF chose the motto 'The World is Our Dojo' because karate's popularity has grown immensely over the years. The federation now has 200 members worldwide, and counting," Lim said. He added, "Virtually anywhere in the planet, there is a karate gym, so the WKF can rightfully say that 'The World is Our Dojo.'"
Lim emphasized the scale of the event, noting that 59 countries and nearly 1,000 karatekas are participating. "The fact we have 59 competing countries and close to 1,000 karatekas worldwide coming over underscores the deep influence of this native Japanese discipline in becoming a universal combat sport," he said. The tournament is backed by the SM Group of Companies and the Philippine Olympic Committee.
Early Arrivals and International Participation
The first to arrive was a seven-member Malaysian junior squad, which landed on Wednesday and has been training and sparring with local counterparts at the Association for the Advancement of Karatedo (AAK) gym in Mandaluyong. "These Malaysian karatekas are among the best they have and shows how our Southeast Asian neighbor is keen on doing well in the competition," Lim said. The bulk of the Malaysian delegation will arrive later, along with other overseas contingents, including a 78-member Australian squad, 40 from Saudi Arabia, and 39 from New Zealand.
Participants will be treated to a welcome dinner on Wednesday by the Department of Tourism before the competition begins the next day at the Mall of Asia Arena. The second day will feature a festive opening ceremony with drummers, cultural dancers, a laser show, and a parade of flags. The event is also supported by Senators Christopher "Bong" Go and Pia Cayetano.
Notable Attendees
Among the dignitaries expected to grace the occasion are Philippine Olympic Committee president Abraham "Bambol" Tolentino, PSC chairman Patrick "Pato" Gregorio, WKF president Antonio Espinos, Milo senior vice president Veronica Cruz, and Carlo Sampan, Milo Philippines assistant vice president and Head for Sports.
Competition Categories
The youth karate festival will feature 34 categories in both kumite (sparring) and kata (forms). Divisions include Under-14 (12-13 years old), Cadets (14-15 years old), and Junior (16-17 years old) for both boys and girls.
